The Associated Press and Times-Union staff 

A bill sponsored by state Sen. Audrey Gibson, D-Jacksonville, that would temporarily suspend a mentally ill person's gun rights has unanimously cleared a Senate panel.

The Senate Criminal Justice Committee on Monday passed the bill (SB 1000) that would authorize a 90-day suspension of the ability to buy or keep a firearm or ammunition and to carry a concealed weapon.

The suspension would be triggered if a person was involuntarily committed for psychological examination and found to be a threat to him- or herself and others. An initial 90-day suspension can be extended if a treating physician or psychologist deems it necessary.

The measure is supported by longtime guns-rights activist Marion Hammer. She is a former National Rifle Association president.

A second gun bill filed by Gibson that would require a an anger management evaluation prior to purchasing ammunition is having less luck. It was given four committee stops – three is considered average – and has yet to be placed on an agenda.

“I still believe in it, but I don’t think that bill is getting heard,” Gibson said.

Link:  http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/403455/matt-dixon/2013-04-01/g...